Tag: Dodge

  • 2012 Mopar Dodge Charger Redline

    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar ThumbThe brand new 2012 Dodge Charger Redline is now with more aggressive look and delivers more dynamism in performance. This is due to the 426 HEMI®-powered showcase of new Mopar® performance kits. They will be available later this year. At the event of the 2012 North American International Auto Show, the Dodge Charger Redline vehicle with all three Mopar performance stage kits will make its first appearance.

    What Mopar has done to enhance this beautiful vehicle is firstly to include aerodynamic carbon fiber exterior components and interior accents. In details these modifications include a full-width Mopar carbon fiber chin spoiler in order to give the Charger Redline a more aggressive appearance. Matching the Redline Tri-coat paint, the two-piece grille features a body-color painted-grille surround with black signature “crosshair” insert. Large 20 x 8-inch Mopar Black Envy Wheels feature a Pitch Black-painted wheel face with polished accents. In addition Mopar carbon fiber door scoops highlight Dodge Charger Redline’s signature body-side scallops and include heritage “R/T” badging (all this only to pay homage to the historic 1970 Charger version). To make the car more powerful there is also a three-piece Mopar carbon fiber rear spoiler. Moreover it also provides an even more dynamic look. To emphase Dodge Charger Redline’s fastback silhouette, Mopar made a vinyl roof graphic in matte black. Furthermore the Dodge Charger Redline’s cockpit design includes high quality materials and is additionally enhanced with a Mopar aluminum shift bezel and aluminum instrument panel bezel with Redline perimeter accent. Mopar had even taken care for the pedal covers, which are made from stainless steel and feature a rubberized pattern for improved traction.

    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar
    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar

    The second improvement by Mopar concerns the bolt-on berformance parts, which deliver improved power, handling and braking. This performance kit allows the Dodge Charger Redline’s legendary HEMI® V-8 engine to perform at its optimal level. Furthermore Mopar’s cat-back performance exhaust system provides an increase in horsepower. In order provide increased structural stability for improved handling dynamics, under the hood there is a front-tower cross-brace and front tower brace caps.  For ultimate braking capability, high-performance Mopar brake linings are track tested and deliver fade-resistance during hard braking use.

    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar
    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar

    Next Mopar has included its Gen III High Output 426 HEMI V-8 engine, with 590 Horsepower (434 kW) on Tap. With this enhancement the vehicle delivers 220 more horsepower than the 2012 Dodge Charger R/T. With its legendary 426 cubic-inch “Elephant Motor,” the Dodge Charger Redline delivers the astonishing 590 horsepower. All this is possible thank to the lightweight aluminum V-8 engine block that shaves more than 100 lbs. from the traditional cast-iron crate version. On the other hand the new Gen III High Output 426 HEMI engine includes a stout, balanced lower reciprocating assembly that features a forged-steel crankshaft with six-bolt mains at 2, 3 and 4, and cross-bolted 4-bolt mains at 1 and 5. H-beam style rods are made from forged steel and coupled to forged 11:1 compression ratio aluminum pistons. In order to provide excellent oil dispersion and to prevent oil aeration by the crankshaft, there is also included a revised windage tray. Moreover the Gen III High Output 426 HEMI engine’s valvetrain starts with a more aggressive roller camshaft with .639 intake and .628 exhaust lift and cylinder heads that feature the latest designs for excellent flow characteristics. In addition tie bars are also available, thus helping stabilizing the valvetrain at high engine rpm. At last, in this amazing Dodge Charger Redline’s Stage III performance kit are also included Mopar cast-aluminum valve covers and billet fuel rails.

    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar
    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar

    Source: Chrysler

  • Cars Under 30 000$ You Can Buy Today

    So you have 30 000$ laying around and you want to buy a car? Well great! Always willing to give reasonable consumer advice, we at automobilesreview.com have compiled a list of the best cars out there that go effortlessly under that limit.

    Mazda RX-8 – Starting at $26,795

    It’s nice to have something exclusive just to tackle the mundane day-to-day life. So why not try the Mazda RX-8? Yes, it has been around for over 7 years now and soon it will be gone but it still is capable to put a smile on your face and also to punch you in the chest. While retaining a typical sloping profile of a two-door coupé it actually has four doors if we count the clever rear-hinged “freestyle” ones at the back. That gives you a certain degree of practicality and also something to brag about  The power comes from a 1.3 but it is a rotary Wankel engine so it develops the staggering 232 units of horsepower. However, despite it’s size, this engine is quite thirsty (because of working in a completely different manner from conventional engines) for both fuel and oil. So running costs might be a problem for some.

    Mazda RX-8
    Mazda RX-8

    MINI Cooper S – $23,800

    This is the closest thing to a BMW you can get for that kind of money. It has a 1.6 twin scroll turbocharged engine with fully variable valve timing. So in essence you get 181 hp in a car that weighs no more than a double cheeseburger. It has perfect road manners, plenty of efficiency and a classy image deriving from an old British icon. It’s not very big though, is it?

    MINI Cooper S (2010)
    MINI Cooper S (2010)

    VW Golf GTI –  Starting at $23,700

    This was an easy pick. Ever since the magnificent Mk.1, GTIs have always been dominant on the hot hatch market. Blistering performance, superb handling and a solid image are just a few superlatives that can describe what the capable hand German engineers has done here. Ever evolving, the Golf now makes use of a powerful 2.0 l. TSI engine coupled with either a 6-speed DSG gearbox or a 6-speed manual for diehard motoring enthusiasts. It’s hard to find anything here  not to like. Focus ST fans may argue that it is a bit dreary and plain but that is as far as they would go.

    Volkswagen Golf VI GTI (2012)
    Volkswagen Golf VI GTI (2012)

    Mazda MX-5 – Starting at $23,190

    Another Mazda here however, unlike the RX-8, the MX does not take itself very seriously. It has a refined 2.0 l, 136 hp engine and not a million horsepower rocket thruster under the hood. Nor does it get any cunningly disguised compartments. All it does is to stay true to itself – front mid engine, rear-wheel drive, two seats and a soft top. It was originally conceived to honer the memory of the emblematic small British roadster class. Yes, most probably not the technological miracle that other cars try to be, but you’ll notice heads turning while driving around in town and that will make you happy.

    Mazda MX-5 (2011)
    Mazda MX-5 (2011)

    Fiat 500 Abarth – Starting at $23,000

    We wouldn’t miss a chance to add some Italian pesto on our petrol salad. It is another iconic supermini which changed the world of consumerism when it got out in 1957. Today, more than half a century later it is still as good to the taste as Italian wine. Abarth is a subsidiary company for Fiat that produces hardcore, lunatic, rubber burning demons. With their help this 2012 imp now has a 16-valve 1.4-liter engine that brings 160 hp. The design has managed to preserve its simplistic spirit coming from the 500’s ancestors and yet it is absolutely stunning to look at. Is it better than the MINI? We will let you decide.

    Fiat 500 Abarth (2012)
    Fiat 500 Abarth (2012)

    Dodge Challenger R/T – Starting at $29,995

    “It’s a muscle car and it is awesome!” That is at least what the kid in all of us says. In reality it is impractical, thirsty, barely a technological landmark and it handles like a rowing boat.  But bare with us on that one. Imagine – you on the open road, the sun blazing down on you, haze rising from the black tarmac. What do we need to complete the picture? You guessed it, it’s a Dodge Challenger. But it’s not the power, nor are the emblematic looks you want the most. All you want to hear is the sound of a 375 hp, V8 HEMI thundering down that road with you behind the wheel. That sort of practice should actually be classified as therapy for it might be the most smile-inducing thing out there. But it is even more than that: with it you are fighting for a cause to save this dying breed of vehicles which used to be so cherished in the past.

    Dodge C hallenger R/T (2009)
    Dodge C hallenger R/T (2009)

    Honda Clarity FCX – Around $22 000

    So Cameron Diaz drives a hybrid and so does Leonardo DiCaprio. The list goes on for miles and it makes you think: “what is it about those cars?” Well, nowadays it has become a trend to think about the environment. 30 years ago it might have been “cool” to own the above mentioned Dodge Challenger but now Prius is the new swagger. But are you willing to play along and subdue to the  the newly established norms? No, you are better than that. Go full on environmentally friendly with the Honda Clarity FCX – the car that according to Jay Leno will save the supercar just like the the car saved the horse. Put simply, the FCX will be the future of motoring when petrol starts running low. It is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle which you just top up with compressed hydrogen and then use the oxygen from the atmosphere to create a reaction with an end result – H2O (water). The energy expelled from the reaction however powers up a 136 horsepower electric motor. This mode of energy producing eliminates the need of the dreadful battery packs used in various hybrids which are unreliable and dependent on power sockets and the weather. The Honda is efficient, clean and quite normal actually. The only problem of driving around in it is that you might flood the Earth eventually (joking really). While it is amazingly cheap to buy, obtaining one is as tricky as obtaining hydrogen itself. About 200 vehicles will be leased over the next three years, primarily in Southern California. But if you do manage to get one, you wont get more exclusive than that.

    Honda FCX Clarity (2009)
    Honda FCX Clarity (2009)
  • Top 10 Cars Women Love To Drive

    Women have a specific taste in cars, and it is not a secret that they have different criteria for choosing a car then men do. If men count on a passionate driving packed in good style (sometimes no matter the expenses), women prefer cars which are agile, with good visibility, considerable storage space and which combine practicality and comfort. Moreover they prefer the car to be fuel-efficient, eco-friendly and at reasonable price. Of course, women also have as a core requirement the car to be safe enough, especially when kids are considered. Another important factor is the car to be exciting to drive. And if you think that the most important thing for a woman is how her car looks, well you are wrong. A surprise is that the design comes after the practicality of the car! To sum up, women tend to consider many things as well as put attention to the little details.

    Given these criteria we have picked ten of the most preferred vehicles which are appealing to women.

    2011 Nissan Rouge

    2011 Nissan Rogue - Front Angle

    The first car to be included in our top ten is Nissan Rouge because of its comfortability and appealing look. Moreover it is fun-to drive; it is practical and has enough storage space as a compact crossover. Additional features that make this vehicle very suitable one for women are that it has nice interior and comfortable seats. Furthermore it delivers smooth drive.

    Price: [rating:3/6]
    Fuel-Efficiency: [rating:3/6]
    Comfort: [rating:4/6]
    Ecological Aspect: [rating:2/6]
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    Safety: [rating:3/6]


    2011 Ford Focus ECOnetic

    Ford Focus is one of the most familiar cars on the road nowadays. And no surprise it is also well appreciated by women. The reasons for this are several. First of all it is very well priced. Secondly it is very well built and designed. Moreover with this car the woman counts on the fuel efficiency as well. Additional advantage is that Ford has offered this model as a hybrid – called Ford Focus Econetic, which makes it perfect for those who want to be eco-friendly.

    2011 Ford Focus ECOnetic - Front Angle

    Price: [rating:4/6]
    Fuel-Efficiency: [rating:4/6]
    Comfort: [rating:3/6]
    Ecological Aspect: [rating:4/6]
    Driving Behavior: [rating:2/6]
    Safety: [rating:3/6]


    2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

    At first glance Hyundai Sonata looks extremely masculine. Nonetheless it features very feminine sides such as unique modern interior and smooth curves. Another very important feature is that the four-door sedan is extremely fuel-efficient. It is the perfect family car, not only because of its’ five-passenger seats, but also because of its practicality and safety. Furthermore it is at excellent amount of money. In addition, to make it even more efficient, in 2011 Hyundai has made out of it a hybrid model.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid - Front Angle

    Price: [rating:4/6]
    Fuel-Efficiency: [rating:6/6]
    Comfort: [rating:4/6]
    Ecological Aspect: [rating:6/6]
    Driving Behavior: [rating:4/6]
    Safety: [rating:4/6]


    2011 Honda Civic

    Undeniably Honda Civic is very appealing and eye-catching. But the woman behind the steering-wheel has chosen this car because it is firstly dependable, secondly – reliable, and thirdly – economical. Moreover it is exciting to drive and it is very comfortable for the passenger. And if you think that only the single ladies will pick such car, well the moms will also choose it because it offers a great level of safety!

    2011 Honda Civic - Front Angle

    Price: [rating:5/6]
    Fuel-Efficiency: [rating:4/6]
    Comfort: [rating:4/6]
    Ecological Aspect: [rating:2/6]
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    Safety: [rating:4/6]


    2012 Toyota Yaris

    Toyota Yaris is the perfect city car and it is one of the most affordable small cars on the market. Moreover it offers dynamic styling and great level of handling and ride quality. And if the woman wants an exciting drive, she will definitely have it with this car, thank to the direct steering and progressive reactions.

    2012 Toyota Yaris - Front Angle

    Price: [rating:5/6]
    Fuel-Efficiency: [rating:4/6]
    Comfort: [rating:2/6]
    Ecological Aspect: [rating:3/6]
    Driving Behavior: [rating:2/6]
    Safety: [rating:2/6]


    2012 Volkswagen Beetle

    This iconic vehicle shows a lot of class and style. It has 73 years history and now it is one of the most desired cars from women. Furthermore it delivers dynamic drive, which is sporty and bold. With such car the lady behind the wheel will feel unique, and who doesn’t want to feel that way?

    In addition to the unique styling stand the high-class interior, the capable handling and at last – the comfortable ride it provides. Moreover it is very well-equipped and offers more space than its ancestors.

    2012 Volkswagen Beetle - Front Angle

    Price: [rating:4/6]
    Fuel-Efficiency: [rating:2/6]
    Comfort: [rating:3/6]
    Ecological Aspect: [rating:2/6]
    Driving Behavior: [rating:4/6]
    Safety: [rating:4/6]


    2012 Mercedes Benz B-Class

    Of course we can’t go further in the Top 10, if we don’t include the Mercedes-Benz brand. Although a lot of women prefer to drive the A-Class too, we have picked for this position – the new B-Class. There are several reasons that most women will fall for this incredible vehicle. First of all it is very stylish in both exterior and interior. Secondly it provides considerable amount of space in the massive cabin and in the cargo. Moreover it is the perfect family car because it offers great levels of comfort and security. And to sum up – it is the perfect car for caring mums!

    2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class - Front Angle

    Price: [rating:3/6]
    Fuel-Efficiency: [rating:3/6]
    Comfort: [rating:4/6]
    Ecological Aspect: [rating:3/6]
    Driving Behavior: [rating:4/6]
    Safety: [rating:5/6]


    2011 Dodge Journey

    The next place goes for Dodge Journey, which is another family car but this time a crossover. What is unique about this car is that it can offer a place for up to 7 passengers and hence this makes it perfect for families with a lot of members. Moreover the car is really at affordable price and is fuel efficient. It can offer the best ride during distant trips for holidays!

    2011 Dodge Journey - Front Angle

    Price: [rating:4/6]
    Fuel-Efficiency: [rating:3/6]
    Comfort: [rating:4/6]
    Ecological Aspect: [rating:3/6]
    Driving Behavior: [rating:4/6]
    Safety: [rating:5/6]


    2011 Chrysler 300

    The woman who drives this car definitely understands from style, because this vehicle is classy and powerful! It is a combination of numerous features, starting with interior and the vigorous V8 engine. In addition it offers as well a comfortable ride in a quiet interior made of high quality materials. And although it is not inexpensive as some other cars included in this chart, it is definitely one of the cars which women love to drive.

    2011 Chrysler 300 - Front Angle

    Price: [rating:2/6]
    Fuel-Efficiency: [rating:3/6]
    Comfort: [rating:6/6]
    Ecological Aspect: [rating:2/6]
    Driving Behavior: [rating:4/6]
    Safety: [rating:5/6]


    2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

    The last included car here is the luxury Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. This vehicle is both affordable and it is a segment leader in terms of efficiency! The pros about this car include not only the high fuel economy but also the excellent infotainment features, the comfortable seats and driving position, and at last but not least – the responsive steering. One thing is surely here – the woman who drives this Lincoln MKZ Hybrid shows that she doesn’t have to sacrifice luxury to own a green vehicle.

    2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid - Front Angle

    Price: [rating:1/6]
    Fuel-Efficiency: [rating:6/6]
    Comfort: [rating:6/6]
    Ecological Aspect: [rating:6/6]
    Driving Behavior: [rating:2/6]
    Safety: [rating:5/6]
  • 2013 SRT VIPER to be built in Chrysler Group’s Conner Avenue Assembly Plant

    2010-dodge-viper-srt10-acr-x-01 thumbMore news from Chrysler Group LLC is coming today. Chrysler has announced that it will reopen its Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit for the production of the next generation SRT Viper. The Conner facility was vacant since the end of the production of the Dodge Viper in July 2010. The good news is that from Chrysler has also confirmed that in the late 2012 a next generation Viper will return on the market as a 2013 model. To be more precise Conner Avenue will begin the manufacturing of the new Viper in late 2012. Of course Current Chrysler Group will employ firstly the people who previously worked at Conner. And the balance of the positions will be filled by hourly employees volunteering to transfer to the Conner Avenue plant. The aim of the facility is to implement a World Class Manufacturing (WCM). This is a system that is focused on reducing waste and making continuous improvements throughout the assembly process to improve quality and productivity.

    To go back in history, Viper production began at first in May 1992 at the New Mack Assembly Plant. Then in October 1995 it moved to the Conner Avenue site. What is interesting here is that all Vipers that rolled off the line were hand-built in a low-volume, modular process. Over the range of 15 years, Conner Avenue employees built about 12 vehicles a day for a total of 22,070 Vipers. On the other hand, the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant was built back in the distant 1966 and purchased by Chrysler in 1995. The production of Prowler began in May 1997 and finished in February 2002. Another interesting detail about the factory is that the Viper V-10 engine production was transferred from Mound Road Engine to Conner Assembly in May 2001. Next comes the year 2003, in which the newly engineered SRT10 Roadster hit the market. In 2005 the production of SRT10 Coupe followed. With a production run of 28,056, the Viper production ended on 2d of July 2010 and as an effect the facility was idled.

    2010 Dodge Viper STR10 ACR-X
    2010 Dodge Viper STR10 ACR-X

    Chrysler Group LLC was formed in 2009 with the aim to establish a global strategic alliance with Fiat S.p.A. It produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Mopar, SRT and Fiat vehicles and products. In addition with the resources, technology and world-wide distribution network they reach a global scale, using Chrysler Group’s aim for constant innovation. Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group’s product lineup features some of the world’s most recognizable vehicles, such as Chrysler 300 and Town & Country, Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Durango, Ram 1500, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 and Fiat 500. On the other hand Fiat contributes with a world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-size cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including eco-friendly vehicles.

    Source: Chrysler

  • 2013 Dodge Dart Interior

    The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart Interior will undeniably set a brand new high level standard for compact cars. First of all it is a modern blend of precision craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology and Safety. Secondly it amazes with exciting bursts of color and hand-sculpted shapes. And at last all mentioned above will allow the highly customizable interior to become reality. Here we can have a sneak peak into the high-tech, precisely crafted and highly customizable interior of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart. The vehicle is scheduled to be introduced on 9th of January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

    To keep the interest high enough Dodge designers focused on what is modern nowadays. For example the interior was made with materials and technology typically found in more expensive vehicle segments. Starting with modern Dodge DNA and through the use of innovative ambient interior lighting, high-quality soft-touch materials and high-tech features, the 2013 Dodge Dart is going to provide lot of pleasure and delight for both drivers and passengers. For instance the Dart’s “driver-centric” layout is made to put all controls within easy reach of the driver. Furthermore there are a customizable displays and comfort-tuned seats, which are packaged in a spacious interior.

    2013 Dodge Dart Interior
    2013 Dodge Dart Interior

    The key to this development was the customization in the all-new Dodge Dart. It is being offered with 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color and trim combinations, six wheel options, three engine options and three transmissions. The good news is that each Dodge Dart can be personalized by every client, in order to match their individuality.

    Moreover a class-leading has being used in the all-new Dodge-Dart. The high-tech centerpiece of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is the class-exclusive floating island bezel, which houses the segment-exclusive available 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable gauge cluster display with light pipe surround that also houses the available class-exclusive UConnect Touch 8.4-inch touchscreen multimedia center. In addition the glove box easily conceals a stowed iPad. In the center console there are as a feature auxiliary jacks to plug in a wide variety of electronic devices, and thoughtful, inventive storage solutions, such as console map pockets, which are perfect for storing mobile phones, receipts, or pen and paper. Further optimizations are the ambient lighting for the door handles, map pockets, foot wells, glove box, storage bin and illuminated cup holders. They are definitely useful, and moreover they also provide a good warm atmosphere inside the vehicle.

    At last the security and safety of the car is unmatched in its class. The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart was built on a strong foundation: in the construction is included 68 percent high-strength steel. Moreover engineers have added both active and passive safety features such as 10 standard airbag, blind spot monitoring and rear cross path detection.

    2013 Dodge Dart Interior
    2013 Dodge Dart Interior

    Source: Chrysler

  • 2013 Dodge Dart Compact Car [teaser]

    Dodge Dart [teaser] Front Angle
    The upcoming 2013 Dodge Dart is going to be a state-of-the-art four-door sedan with refined and class-leading aerodynamics. At the core of the car lies the combination between Alfa Romeo DNA and Dodge’s passion for performance. Hence you can certainly expect that the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is a thoroughly modern vehicle that is firstly fuel-efficient, secondly beautifully designed and crafted, and lastly agile and brings fun back to driving in the segment.

    The aim of the Dodge brand is to deliver high-quality, innovative vehicles that stand apart in performance and style. This was made possible because of the unique combination of Alfa Romeo’s DNA and Dodge’s perfection in performance. First of all, an important note is that the all-new Dart is the first Chrysler Group vehicle based upon a Fiat architecture (adapted from the award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulietta). The Giulietta is highly appreciated for its great performance according road-holding, agility and safety, combined with exceptional driving dynamics. The Dart leverages all of these attributes within a lengthened and widened space delivering segment-leading levels of interior spaciousness. Furthermore the 68 percent of the body is composed of high-strength steel, resulting in a very strong and rigid structure. All that combined with responsive steering, four-wheel independent suspension, and available 18-inch wheels, makes the Dart valuable in driving experience.

    The design is undeniably eye-catching! First the exterior proportions are set off from every angle by dynamic lines and curves, along with advanced technology. The reason for that is of course the goal to deliver class-leading aerodynamic performance. In addition the personality-packed front view is instantly recognizable as an all-new Dodge with its tailored split-crosshair grille, projector headlamps and fog lamps and accentuated fenders.

    The new 2013 Dodge Dart is not only impressive by design but also with its powerful fuel efficient engines! It will be powered by three sophisticated four-cylinder engines. According to the individual like, drivers can select from a new Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter engine, a 16-valve 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo engine, and a new Tigershark 16-valve 2.4-liter MultiAir four cylinder engine. These three engines, combined with three transmission choices, are refining the performance by providing the most various powertrain lineups in their class. To go further into details there is a MultiAir technology that delivers optimum combustion at any speed under all driving conditions. It allows direct and dynamic control of air intake and combustion thus resulting in a 15 percent increase in low engine rpm torque, a 7.5 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a 10 percent reduction in C02 emissions.

    The all-new Dodge Dart will be made in America, at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill. The all-new Dodge Dart has been designed with high levels of refinement, craftsmanship and engaging driving dynamics.  There you’ll get all the extra photos and information about the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart.

    Dodge Dart [teaser] - Rear Angle

    Source: Dodge

  • ZAKSPEED Dodge Viper

    In order to go into details about this ZAKSPEED Dodge Viper, we have to review some history about it. Firstly in 2010 the current owner acquired the Viper presented here. Obviously this Zakspeed racing car is stunningly racing-tuned. This tuning was made possible because the Heurich Classics plant (founded in 2006 in the Bavarian Zeitlofs-Rupboden specializing in custom work) was commissioned to convert this Viper. The aim here was to bring this Viper back to the streets and let it shine on an occasion. This time however, the car should be painted not in white, but in its old colors again.

    In order to achieve the first goal and to get the racer back to the streets, a strategy will be developed jointly with the Engineering Supervision, which eventually was implemented in the Heurich Classics workshop. What they decided to do is to cut the spoiler, remove the rear diffuser, rebuild the side channels, put new tires and wheels, change the brake system and install a hand brake system with CNC-machined caliper carriers. Further modifications have been made in the steering angle which was increased. Next the cooling system was changed, additional fans were installed, engine peripherals were modified, exhaust system was adapted, electrics and complete light control were changed, seats as well as harness were renewed, passenger seat were installed, and finally the glazing was also renewed.

    Their goal was to recreate the Viper in its original Hasseröder design of 1999.Hence the original colors of its time have to be made by means of platinum wrapping foils. These improvements were made by the company Cam Shaft in Kempen.

    And for the curious ones, the Viper GTS-R was the car that won firstly the Zakspeed and then Michael Martin Racing Systems. It is not a surprise if you know that it features a 6.2-liter V8 with 600 horsepower (441 kW). Moreover the car is equipped with a Tremec six-speed manual gearbox, KW dampers and a Motec M8 system. And if you take all that into account, you’ll be amazed that it weights only 1350 kg.

    ZAKSPEED Dodge Viper
    ZAKSPEED Dodge Viper

    Source: ZAKSPEED

  • Mopar 8.4 liter V10 with 800HP at 2011 SEMA

    Mopar has created a monstrous entirely new 8.4 liter V10 engine, which was introduced at 2011 SEMA Show.

    “SEMA is the perfect platform to introduce some of Mopar’s newest high performance and restoration parts and products,” commented Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar. “If you’re looking for horsepower that can be dropped in or bolted on, the Mopar exhibit area has a full range of small- and big-block products for the enthusiast.

    “Mopar has been in the performance business for decades. In fact, the brand really came to life at the track,” he added.

    “We are committed to supporting performance enthusiasts. We have an extremely rich product plan that will not only support the more than 5 million HEMI engines in market today and the 30 million Chrysler Group vehicles on the roads across the country, but will also support the products of tomorrow. The engines we are launching are the first of many exciting products to come for both on and off-road needs. We have an amazing track record of fueling enthusiasts and are committed to continuing this legacy.”, Mr. Gorlier finished.

    The new 8.4 liter performance V10 produces 811PS (597 kW) and 941Nm (695 lb-ft) of torque. These results are thanks to a number of modifications – a forged steel crankshaft with forged steel connecting rods and forged aluminum pistons with a compression ratio of 12.5:1. All rotating components have been balanced for maximum performance at the track. The mighty engine revs up to 7000RPM.

    Mopar 8.4 liter V10
    Mopar 8.4 liter V10

    Source: Dodge

  • Best Looking 2011 Muscle Car

    Like you may already guessed, our competitors for the title ‘Best Looking 2011 Muscle Car’ are three of the most iconic names among this pure American category of performance vehicles – the 2011 Ford Mustang GT, 2011 Chevrolet Camaro SS and the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8. While each of these exclusive models boasts its own charm and character, all three are proud successors of the rides that created this class of vehicles. (more…)

  • 2011 Dodge Ram Runner Mopar

    2011 Dodge Ram Runner Mopar is a specially modified vehicle, which is set to be the ultimate desert racer. Mopar performance division has introduced the Ram Runner off-road kit, which features some exclusive parts.

    “At Mopar, our image vehicles showcase potential directions that we may take and the new Ram Runner kit is a good example,” commented Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO, Mopar, Chrysler Group’s service, parts and customer-care brand.

    “We saw the reception that Ram Runner received last year and quickly moved to offer kits that will allow off-road enthusiasts to transform their stock Ram 1500 into a desert racer.”, he added.

    The Mopar Ram Runner Kit includes Pre-Runner Stage II Lift Kit, off-road front bumper, off-road front and rear fenders, off-road rear-tire carrier, sport performance hood and cat-back exhaust. Furthermore, each part can be purchased separately.

    The stance of the pick-up is lifted with 35.6cm (14 inches).

    However, the full kit costs around $20 000, excluding taxes.

    Mopar Ram Runner Mopar

    Mopar-First Features

    Mopar has introduced numerous industry-first features including:
    •    Camper trailers: first to introduce off-road camper trailers
    •    Vehicle-information smartphone apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new channel of communication with consumers
    •    Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format
    •    Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): first to introduce new vehicle tracking system that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on set parameters
    •    2011 Challenger Drag Pak: first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car
    •    WiFi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
    •    Brand-specific customer care telephone lines: first to offer Sunday service hours for customers
    •    WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network

    Source: Dodge

  • 2011 Dodge Caliber Mopar Edition

    Dodge Caliber Mopar Edition will be launched in South Africa.

    It is powered by a a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with some modifications provided by Mopar. There is CAI (Cold Air Induction) system as well as a dual sport exhaust. There are no data about the improvements, but the vehicle develops 156PS (115 kW) and 190Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque before them.

    Caliber Mopar Edition stands on enormous 18” black powder-coated alloy wheels fitted with low profile tires. The suspension is lowered with 50mm for better stance and handling.

    Finally, the tuner added Sporty bonnet, beltline decals and Mopar decals.

    2011 Dodge Caliber Mopar Edition is priced at R259 990 ($37 130).

    Mopar upgrades:

    • Cold-air induction kit
    • Performance manifold and exhaust system
    • 18″ black powder-coated alloy wheels
    • 2″ lowering kit
    • Sporty bonnet and beltline decals
    • Mopar decals

    2011 Dodge Caliber Mopar Edition

    Source: Dodge

  • Dodge Ram Long-Hauler Concept Truck

    Dodge Ram Long-Hauler Concept Truck will be on display at selected events across the country. The vehicle is based on a Class 5 Ram 5500 Chassis Cab and boasts a number of modifications.

    One of the most staggering facts about the vehicle is its fuel tank, which can contain up to 170 gallons of fuel. means fueling up would cost up to around 750 dollars given current gas prices in the U.S.

    The dimensions are also unbelievable – 5014 mm (197.4 inches) wheelbase, the overall length is 7315 mm (24 feet), height – 2009 mm (79.1 inches) and the curb weight of the huge truck is 4213 kg (9 300lbs).

    Dodge Ram Long-Hauler Concept is powered by a six-cylinder 6.7 liter High Output Cummins Turbo Diesel with 1083Nm (800 lb-ft). The horsepower are not so important and the company didn’t release any information about the power. The engine is mated to a 6-speed Aisin AS68RC automatic gearbox. All the pulling power is put on the road through a four-wheel-drive.

    The vehicle stands on a Kelderman air suspension and 19.5” Alcoa aluminum wheels.

    Among the goodies in the cabin, there are Wi-Fi, a laptop storage area , 2+2 leather seating with a specific, high comfort driver seat. Rear passenger comfort is assured with power-adjustable footrests and a rear center console that includes a refrigerator, cup holders and tray tables.

    The Ram Long-Hauler is only a concept and can be seen across the country in the next 8 months.

    Dodge Ram Long-Hauler Concept Truck

    Source: Chrysler